EMPLOYMENT FIGURES SHOW NEED FOR CONTINUED STIMULUS

EMPLOYMENT FIGURES SHOW NEED FOR CONTINUED STIMULUS

SCOTLAND'S ECONOMIC RECOVERY NEEDS SNP CHAMPIONS

SNP Treasury Spokesperson, Stewart Hosie MP, has said that today's
unemployment figures underline the pressing need for continued economic
stimulus in the UK.

Statistics produced by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) show
that while unemployment rates in Scotland increased by 10 000 to 7.6 per
cent - compared to 7.8 per cent UK-wide - rates of employment and economic
activitiy in Scotland remain better than the UK average.

Commenting, Mr Hosie said:

"Unique amongst the G7, the UK is the only country to withdraw its fiscal
stimulus measures in 2010. The Scottish economy is beginning to turn a
corner - now is the wrong time for London to cancel fiscal stimulus.

"Every job loss is felt in local communities, and the London parties are
letting Scotland down. Labour are already imposing zero stimulus this year
by withdrawing the support package, while Tory proposals to cut even
further and faster add up to negative stimulus.

"The SNP are calling for a positive stimulus package to support jobs and
recovery.

"The Scottish Government's Economic Recovery plan is making a real
difference, but - until Scotland gains fiscal independence - support must
also be forthcoming from the London Treasury.

"The UK Labour Government ignored SNP calls to continue the acceleration
of capital spending, and now they are dealing a real blow to the Scottish
economy by removing the fiscal stimulus this year.

"Only the SNP will champion economic recovery and jobs in Scotland, which
is why Scotland needs SNP MPs."